Our History

Saltwater Cowboys opened on Shem Creek in 2017, but its roots run much deeper, anchored in a legacy built by Ronnie Boals, one of the original visionaries behind Shem Creek’s transformation into a dining and boating destination. Ronnie opened R.B.’s Seafood Restaurant in 1985 (now Sunsets next door), helping set the standard for what Shem Creek could become: a place where locals and tourists alike could enjoy fresh seafood, Southern hospitality, and waterfront charm. His son, Wade Boals, continued that tradition by teaming up with longtime restaurateur Brett Yearout and international hospitality expert Joel Olindo to create Saltwater Cowboys—a concept that blends laid-back creekside vibes with bold Lowcountry flavors.

The influence of the Boals family can be felt throughout Saltwater Cowboys—from the Southern-style seafood and barbecue to subtle nods on the menu, like the iconic Boals Family Crab Dip and famous coconut cake, a sweet ending you’ll want to save room for. With decades of experience behind them, Wade, Brett, and Joel built Saltwater Cowboys to honor the past while delivering a fresh take on Shem Creek’s future. When you are on the docks at Saltwater Cowboys, you can feel the coastal vibes and know why this place is so special. It’s an experience that keeps people coming back time and time again.

Today, Saltwater Cowboys stands as a living tribute to the visionaries who shaped Shem Creek. As the creek continues to evolve, Saltwater Cowboys remains a go-to destination for families, boaters, and food lovers looking to enjoy a true taste of Mount Pleasant charm and Charleston’s coastal culinary tradition.

We’ll see you on the creek!

Interested in learning more about the legacy of Shem Creek? Check out these articles:

• Remember Joel Olindo

• Post & Courier feature on Ronnie “RB” Boals (April 2020)

• Shem Creek Restaurants Farewell Feature on Mr. Boals (Jan. 2023)